Metropolitan Mayor Jason Murphy pictured at the opening of the St Paul’s Jubilee Community Memorial Garden at Central Avenue, Lisduggan on Saturday last.
Photos: Joe Evans
The new Jubilee Memorial Community Garden in Central Avenue, Lisduggan, the brainchild of the local Residents’ Association, was officially launched on a damp Saturday morning last.
The poor weather did nothing to diminish the sense of celebration and achievement at the launch, which was performed by Metropolitan Mayor Jason Murphy (FF) with Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan also attending.
“I was born and bred quite literally a stone’s throw from here,” said Mayor Murphy. “This project is particularly close to my heart and what will make this phase of the project and any future phases a success is the buy-in from us, the community. This is your garden; this is your space. Please enjoy it and take ownership of it and as a community come together to develop it how you wish, bursting with wildflowers, pollinators, colour and scent.”
Jointly funded by the City & County Council’s Environment Section and Waterford Area Partnership (WAP) through its Active Cities initiative, phase one involved the submission of landscape architectural drawings. Following public consultation, the project’s winning design was chosen.
The landscaping project was tendered and overseen by the Open Spaces team in the Council’s Environment Department, with Fairybush Landscaping awarded the contract.
Funding for phase two of the development has been secured from Sláintecare to further enhance the garden’s overall design, which is due to be completed by the summer.
John Burns, who chairs the Larchville/Lisduggan Residents Association, said the community was looking forward to the next phase of development.
“We’re delighted with how much progress has been made so far,” he said. “Already the difference is apparent, and the community has really embraced the idea of having a communal garden that everyone can benefit from. There has been a great level of commitment and dedication from the residents and the Council in bringing the garden to fruition and we’re looking forward to seeing phase two rolled out.”
Bulbs were planted by those from the area in memory of lost loved ones, while a remembrance tree was blessed by Bishop Cullinan, coinciding with the recent 50th Jubilee of St Paul’s Parish. Nuala Colfer from Central Avenue donated two trees to the Memorial Garden in memory of Joe and Kevin Colfer.
Said Michael Murphy of the City & County Council’s Estate Management Team: “The idea of creating a community garden in an unused large open space is as inspired as it is pragmatic. This community garden is placed in the heart of Lisduggan, and it is sustainable, good for the environment, has health and well-being benefits and it strengthens community ties. I look forward to seeing what the local community do in the months and years ahead to solidify and develop this space as a place to be proud of.”
Refreshments were provided by residents, while David Flynn added the musical entertainment.
Cllr John Hearne (SF) commented: “Community is everything, an absolute brilliant morning despite the lashing rain, the residents turned out in their droves to remember family members who passed away… the highlight of the day was the kids and families planting and a great start for David Browne, our new community garda, who planted a shrub and gave out our jubilee medals. So thanks again everyone for another great Parish memory.”
Cllr Seamus Ryan (Lab) described the launch as “very positive”. He added: It was great to meet up with local residents and Gardaí. Congratulations to the local residents committee and the estates office of Waterford Council who have worked very hard on this garden.” Clls Joe Kelly and Donal Barry (both Ind) also attended the well-spirited launch.
Mayor Murphy concluded: “The time is now for the community to link in with the Residents Association to form a working group to oversee the development and maintenance of the space going forward.”
If members of the public would like to donate trees in memory of loved ones to the Jubilee Memorial Garden, they can contact Larchville Lisduggan Residents Association or members of the Garden Committee.
Community Garda David Browne, making his contribution at the official opening of the St Paul’s Jubilee Community Memorial Garden.
